What is a risk factor for shoulder dystocia during delivery?

Shoulder dystocia is a delivery complication that occurs when the fetal shoulders become lodged behind the pubic bone during childbirth. This condition is often associated with several risk factors, and one of the most significant is large fetal size.

When a fetus is larger than average, often referred to as macrosomia, it increases the likelihood that the shoulders may not fit easily through the birth canal. As the baby attempts to be delivered, the larger shoulders can become wedged, resulting in shoulder dystocia. This situation poses risks for both the infant and the mother, including potential injury to the brachial plexus nerves or fractures during the delivery process.

In contrast, while small maternal stature, rapid labor, and multiple gestation can influence delivery dynamics and may present their own challenges, they are not as directly linked to the specific mechanical issue of shoulder dystocia as large fetal size is. Understanding the implications of fetal size helps in planning and managing delivery, particularly in anticipating potential complications.